A charcoal body split by a chalk-white line that sits over a black one, so the fish reads as a tiny pinstripe against dark plants. Hardier and steadier than the neon it is named after.
Temperament
Common health issues
- Ich (white spot)
- Fin rot
- Swim bladder disorder
Care at a glance
- ExerciseModerate
An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.
- GroomingRoutine tank care
Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
- Living spaceNano-tank friendly
Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
- Owner experienceSome experience helps
A little know-how makes life smoother.
- Commitment4โ6 years
Plan for a long, loving relationship.
Health to watch: Ich (white spot) ยท Fin rot ยท Swim bladder disorder
๐ Care guide
The Black Neon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi) comes from the Paraguay basin in Brazil and reaches about 3 to 4 cm. Despite the name it is not closely related to the true neon tetra; its marking is a white-over-black horizontal stripe rather than a blue and red one, and its eye carries a red-gold upper edge. A shoal of eight or more suits a 60 litre tank or larger at 23-27C, pH 5.5 to 7.5 in soft to moderately hard water, planted and shaded. Feed small flake, micro pellets and frozen daphnia, cyclops and brine shrimp. It is one of the hardier small tetras, more forgiving of ordinary tap water than a cardinal or a green neon, and it is not prone to the wasting disease that troubles neons. It is completely peaceful and pairs well with corydoras, rasboras and dwarf cichlids. Keep the group large and the aquascape dark and planted, and the white stripe becomes strikingly bright rather than merely visible.
Frequently asked questions
How active is a Black Neon Tetra?
Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.
How much maintenance does a Black Neon Tetra need?
Routine tank care. Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
What tank size does a Black Neon Tetra need?
Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
Is a Black Neon Tetra a good fit for first-time owners?
Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.
How long do Black Neon Tetra live?
4โ6 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.
What health issues affect the Black Neon Tetra?
Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.
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